Rajendra Abhange, President & CEO, Auto Ignition Ltd

Renowned for reliability, performance and engineering excellence

Auto Ignition Limited (popularly known by its brand name AUTO-LEK) excels in producing premium starter motors and alternators for conventional engines, boasting a robust reputation for reliability, performance, and engineering excellence. Adapting to the times, the company is now pioneers in crafting advanced components for electric vehicles. Its focus on BLDC, PMSM, and Hub motors showcases its commitment to innovation and leading emerging technologies.

“Our extensive automotive experience uniquely equips us to comprehend the intricate requirements of traditional and electric vehicle systems. Fusing engineering precision with adaptability to market trends, we stand out as a dependable partner for cutting-edge solutions in both conventional and EV domains,” states Rajendra Abhange, President & CEO.

Global Presence

“Auto Ignition Limited’s influence spreads across the globe, with a robust presence across 25 countries spanning four continents. From the dynamic markets of North America to the rich cultural diversity of South America and Latin America, our products have made a significant impact. The United Kingdom and Europe are key regions where our quality and innovation have been embraced, while our offerings have found a home in the vibrant landscapes of South Africa, and the dynamic Middle East,” adds Abhange.

The company’s product portfolio encompasses: Starter Motor: Powering 1.0 – 9.5 KW, Alternator: Output up to 250 Amp, EV Drive Motor and Controller: Up to 12 KW, BLDC Cooling Fan Motor: Advanced cooling for enhanced efficiency, AC Blower Motor: Elevating in-cabin comfort, Hub Motor: 1.0 – 8.0 KW, and Axle Systems: L3 and L5 variants for efficient drivetrains. One of the most significant accomplishments emerging from the company’s R&D endeavours is a ground-breaking design change in the grommet utilized within its starter motors. This innovation, recognized through the award of a patent (Sr. No.141736), representing a pivotal advancement that holds the potential to significantly enhance the end-user experience & drive down operational inefficiencies.

Manufacturing Excellence

“At Auto Ignition, our manufacturing blends intelligence, efficiency, and sustainability. Smart automation ensures precise parts traceability for top-quality products. Our lean philosophy, guided by measurable KPIs, nurtures continuous improvement and operational excellence. Embracing green initiatives, our solar plant reduces our carbon footprint, showcasing our unwavering commitment to a greener future. This smart, lean, and green approach redefines manufacturing excellence with a positive impact on industry and the environment,” elucidates Abhange.

Work Culture and Inclusivity

At AUTO-LEK, the company evaluates productivity through efficiency, punctuality, and quality, fostering diverse participation to uphold equality. Prioritizing career growth, the company hires women employees from PAN India, showcasing its action-driven inclusivity. It has welcomed specially-abled employees and has 20% women in various roles. Safety measures encompass accommodation and secure transport, with a ‘Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy’ maintaining zero tolerance, coupled with regular awareness training.

Communication is pivotal, evident in monthly HR meetings for women to share views and ‘Quarterly Interaction Session’ with the CEO, promoting direct dialogue. The company pursues balanced leadership for equitable appraisals, with “AUTO-LEK SPARKS” recognizing 40% women employees. Women’s health takes precedence with Gynaecologist visits and yoga. AUTO-LEK empowers women, embracing diversity for resounding success.

Major Strengths

At AUTO-LEK, ‘customer-first approach’ is embedded in the company culture. The ‘Customer First’ ethos is evident in the quality policy: “IT IS THE POLICY OF AUTO-LEK TO DELIGHT ITS CUSTOMERS BY MEETING THEIR STATED AND IMPLIED NEEDS.” This commitment is tangible, reflected in AUTO-LEK’S unwavering 100% delivery rating despite dynamic industry fluctuations. Its dedication to customer satisfaction endures, shaping decisions regardless of market shifts. In a landscape of excellence, AUTO-LEK distinguishes itself by placing the customer at its core, proving the company’s commitment to exceeding expectations.

AUTO-LEK excels in after-sales and service support. Its commitment to comprehensive solutions post-sale distinguishes the company. With rapid response, effective troubleshooting, and personalized assistance, the company meets customers’ needs precisely. Its robust after-sales support solidifies the company’s reputation as a trusted industry partner.

Exciting New Journey into EV Segment

Auto Ignition Limited is proud to embark on an exciting new journey into the EV segment, introducing the brand “Auto-lek Electric” and integrating cutting-edge German technology. As a pivotal step in this endeavor, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming inauguration of our state-of-the-art facility in SUPA Industrial Estate near Pune, slated for completion by the close of 2023. This strategic expansion not only underscores our commitment to innovation but also positions us at the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution. Within the realm of EVs, our product range boasts a spectrum of offerings, including the powerful EV Drive Motor and Controller, capable of delivering up to 12 KW, the advanced BLDC Cooling Fan Motor that optimizes efficiency through innovative cooling techniques, the refined AC Blower Motor designed to enhance in-cabin comfort, the versatile Hub Motor ranging from 1.0 to 8.0 KW, and our Axle Systems, available in L3 and L5 variants, designed to deliver efficient drivetrain solutions. Each element of our product lineup reflects our dedication to pioneering sustainable mobility solutions that redefine the future of transportation. Company is also planning to offer magnetless axial flux motor (above 5KW) to selected OEMs for its unmatched performance.

Looking Ahead

AUTO-LEK’s 5-year strategy is crafted through off-site annual leadership meetings and mid-year external stakeholder reviews for valuable insights. With a rapid growth trajectory ahead of market trends, technology, and practices, strategy is its foundation. “Built on 5 pillars – Quality, Technology, Growth, Financial Results, and People/Brand, our strategy unifies for the 2025-26 mission. A strong strategic focus ensures smooth deployment throughout the organization.

Currently, we’re driving 25 projects under these pillars, involving 30 management employees allocating 40% of their time. These projects stem from market research and have clear deliverables, shaping AUTO-LEK’s future. Derived KPIs are tracked by pillar heads, communicated monthly to employees. Resource planning is closely monitored by top management to remove roadblocks. Eventually, we envision replacing the function-based structure with TOPS (Team Oriented Problem Solving) for enhanced employee engagement,” notes Abhange.
“Proactive approach to be vigilant, adaptable, flexible and investing in the present for the future needs” is the success mantra of this auto electric components giant.